SPECIAL CATEGORY STATUS FOR ANDHRA TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The demand for Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced in the political landscape following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This issue, rooted in the state's bifurcation in 2014, involves complex financial and political dimensions. Background of SCS Demand
IISC DEVELOPS METHOD TO REMOVE HEAVY METAL CONTAMINANTS FROM GROUNDWATER TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative method to remove heavy metal contaminants, including arsenic, from groundwater. This process is designed to ensure environmental safety and sustainability. Three-Step Method: The method involves a
PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the foundation of rural governance in India, playing a crucial role in decentralizing power and ensuring local self-governance. They were established to empower rural communities and involve them directly in decision-making processes. Historical Background Ancient Governance: Village government in India has a long history. Kautilya’s Arthashastra (200
SPEAKER OF THE LOK SABHA The Speaker of the Lok Sabha in India plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House and maintaining the balance of power between the ruling party and its allies, as well as the opposition. This is especially significant in a coalition government where multiple parties with
STUDY RANKS INDIA SECOND IN NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Recent observations in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, show the Taj Mahal visibly clearer after rain washed away pollution. This phenomenon underscores the significant issue of air pollution and highlights the urgent need to address greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N2O).
STATE OF THE OCEAN REPORT, 2024 The UNESCO State of Ocean Report 2024 emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced oceanographic research and data collection. The report underscores the critical gaps in data and research and calls for immediate action to support healthy and resilient oceans. Key Highlights Inadequate Data and Research Critical Gap: The report
GLOBAL NITROUS OXIDE BUDGET Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly contributing to global warming and ozone layer depletion. A recent study by the Global Carbon Project (GCP) titled “Global Nitrous Oxide Budget (1980-2020)” highlights the alarming rise in N₂O emissions, particularly from human activities. Key Findings of the Study Alarming Rise in
URBANISATION Urbanisation is the process where people move from rural areas to urban centres, resulting in the growth of cities and towns. This trend has accelerated in recent decades, significantly impacting India’s urban centres, which face challenges such as water shortages, urban heating, and infrastructural strains. What is Urbanisation? Urbanisation refers to the movement of
3 STATES SEEK SHRINKING OF ECO-SENSITIVE AREAS IN WESTERN GHATS The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a biodiversity hotspot that spans six states in India: Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. In order to conserve its unique ecology while allowing for sustainable development, the concept of Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) was
NO OUTCOME IN BONN MEETING: WHY MONEY IS KEY TO CLIMATE ACTION The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is an emerging international climate finance target that aims to build upon and exceed the current commitment of $100 billion per year from developed countries to assist developing nations in addressing climate change. This new target seeks
INDIA'S POWER SECTOR India's power sector plays a pivotal role in its economic development, catering to a vast and diverse population. However, it faces numerous challenges ranging from demand-supply imbalances to environmental concerns. The sector is predominantly reliant on coal for electricity generation, despite efforts to diversify towards renewable energy sources. Current Status of India's
SILK ROAD The Silk Road is a historic network of trade routes that connected civilizations from East Asia to the Mediterranean, spanning over 1,500 years of human history. It facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, cultures, and technologies between diverse regions of the world. Named after the lucrative trade in silk that originated in China,
SMART CITIES MISSION The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched on June 25, 2015, by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). The mission aims to develop 100 cities across India into smart cities that provide core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a decent quality of life to their citizens.
HIGH COURT’S TAKE ON MARRIAGE ACT, AN EROSION OF RIGHTS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Special Marriage Act, 1954, was enacted to provide a legal framework for inter-faith marriages in India, promoting the values of individual autonomy, liberty, and equality. However, a recent order by the Madhya Pradesh High Court
DSR CULTIVATION NEEDS LESS WATER, LABOUR, WHY IS IT STILL NOT POPULAR TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS The Punjab government is promoting the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique to reduce water usage and labour in paddy cultivation. Despite incentives and benefits, DSR adoption remains low. Benefits of DSR Water Conservation: Reduces
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI) The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is a biennial assessment that evaluates countries' performance in environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. It provides insights into how nations are progressing towards international environmental goals and commitments, such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement.
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL (NSC) OF INDIA In the context of enhanced global strategic relations, the National Security Advisors of India and the U.S. recently met to discuss strengthening cooperation in various critical areas. This meeting marks the first official U.S. visit since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's re-election for a third term. U.S. National Security Advisor
TIME FOR A CENSUS, COME WHAT MAY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE –SOURCE: THE HINDU The delay of the 2021 Census in India is speculated to be influenced by political strategies, particularly by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Understanding these reasons is crucial for grasping the potential impacts on electoral processes and public welfare.
UNESCO LAUNCHES NEW INITIATIVES FOR “GREENING EDUCATION” The Greening Education Partnership is a global initiative launched by UNESCO to address the climate crisis through education. It involves 80 member states and aims to transform educational institutions into Green Schools, integrating sustainable practices and curricula to prepare learners for climate challenges. This initiative aligns with Sustainable
UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES (PREVENTION) ACT (UAPA) The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is a legislation enacted by the Indian government aimed at the effective prevention of unlawful activities and terrorism. It was originally promulgated as an ordinance on 17th June 1966 and later enacted as an Act in 1967. The UAPA has undergone several amendments to
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT (SWM) CESS Solid Waste Management (SWM) cess is a user fee or charge levied by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India to fund waste management services. It is a form of tax imposed to cover the costs associated with waste collection, disposal, and processing. About SWM Cess Definition: A fee charged by
UNITED NATIONS ACTIVITIES ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) A recent United Nations (UN) report has highlighted the growing concern that Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is being used to spread misinformation and hate-driven narratives about World War II atrocities, including the Holocaust. The report warns that AI can unintentionally create deceptive content, fueling anti-Semitism and other forms
INDIA EYES BREAKTHROUGH AGAINST SICKLE CELL TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY –SOURCE: THE HINDU India is advancing towards developing a gene therapy for sickle cell disease, particularly affecting Scheduled Tribes. Key officials and researchers are optimistic about the progress. High Prevalence in Tribes: Sickle cell disease is common among Scheduled Tribes. Research and Development: The
11 CANDIDATES APPLY TO VERIFY EVM BURNT MEMORY: WHAT IS THIS PROCESS? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS In 2024, for the first time, candidates in the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections applied to verify the burnt memory of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM (CJS) IN INDIA The criminal justice system (CJS) in India is a set of agencies and processes established to control crime and impose penalties on those who break the law. The system is primarily based on the Indian Penal Code (IPC), enacted in 1860. The Constitution of India places the police, public
HINDU KUSH HIMALAYAS The Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) are a critical mountain range that stretches approximately 3,500 kilometres across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Pakistan. These mountains are often referred to as the "water towers of Asia" due to their role as the source of ten major river systems, including
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN INDIA-SRI LANKA RELATIONS India and Sri Lanka have a long-standing relationship rooted in shared cultural, religious, and historical ties. Recent meetings between the Indian External Affairs Minister and the Sri Lankan President have focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors. Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Joint Commissioning: The MRCC was built
INDIA, RUSSIA SET TO FINALISE MUTUAL DRAFT LOGISTICS AGREEMENT The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) between India and Russia marks a significant milestone in enhancing military cooperation between the two nations. This agreement aims to streamline logistics support for joint operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective. Here are the key points about RELOS
WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A SPEAKER? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS The Speaker of the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Indian Parliament. The Speaker pro tem is a temporary appointment to ensure the smooth transition of power until the full-time Speaker is elected.
THE COURT SPELLS THE WAY IN HIMALAYA’S DEVELOPMENT TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is crucial for India's water supply and ecosystem services. However, the current development model in the IHR is unsustainable, threatening both the environment and economy. Recent Supreme Court judgments indicate a shift towards sustainable development
HEATWAVES AS NOTIFIED DISASTERS India's recent heatwave crisis has sparked a debate about officially recognizing heatwaves as notified disasters under the Disaster Management (DM) Act of 2005. This recognition would ensure more focused resources and actions to tackle the devastating impacts of heatwaves, which are periods of abnormally high temperatures occurring during the summer season.
53RD MEETING OF THE GST COUNCIL The 53rd meeting of the GST Council introduced several measures aimed at easing compliance for small businesses and providing tax exemptions on various services. These changes are expected to benefit a broad range of stakeholders, from students to manufacturers, and signal potential shifts in the GST framework. Key Decisions:
WILL THE AGNIPATH SCHEME BE REVAMPED? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Agnipath scheme, announced on June 14, 2022, replaced the permanent recruitment process for soldiers, sailors, and airmen in the Indian Armed Forces. Recruits called Agniveers serve for four years, after which up to 25% may be retained permanently. Key
PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO COAL MINING CAUSES RESPIRATORY, SKIN DISEASES IN WORKERS: STUDY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU Prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has severely impacted the health of mine workers and residents in six major coal mining districts in India. A survey by the National Foundation for India highlights
SEBI TIGHTENS NORMS ON FINANCIAL INFLUENCERS, EASES RULES FOR DELISTING TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has implemented new regulations to curb the influence of unregulated financial influencers on investors. This move aims to ensure transparency and protect investors from misleading information. Key Points Restrictions on
SCREEN ALL PREGNANT WOMEN FOR GESTATIONAL DIABETES WITH POINT-OF-CARE TEST, SAY EXPERTS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS Gestational diabetes is a significant concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries like India. Researchers from India, London, and Africa have proposed a shift from the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to an HbA1c